I have a two story building and in the summer it is always hot on the top floor but cool downstairs. Why is this, and can anything be done to correct this problem?

The real problems here are several. Obviously heat rises. The top floor will always be hotter in the summer and the reverse in the winter. Also in the equation is the fact that if you have only one system, your thermostat is usually on the main floor. When the main floor reaches temperature the thermostat shuts off the equipment, whether or not the other floors are the same temperature!

In some cases a system called "Zoning" can be added which will give you a thermostat on each floor controlling dampers electronically to each floor. However, if manual dampers are installed in your system, you may be able to balance your airflow.

What are some ways to help control my heating & cooling costs?

Once the thermostat is set, it should be left alone. The air filters inside the system need to be checked, cleaned, or changed each month. The outdoor fan should not be covered or obstructed, so it can receive proper airflow.

How often should I change filters?

You should inspect every filter each month and change or clean filters as needed. Time intervals frequently vary with each family and household. The most important aspect of efficient operation of your heating and air conditioning system is proper airflow. Dirty air filters will severely limit airflow, which can cause the compressor to run continuously. Dirty filters could cause a 20% or more increase in operating costs. The outdoor units should be free of debris to ensure uninterrupted movement of air.

Should I turn my air conditioning off during the day if I am not at home?

No, raise the setting on the thermostat a few degrees. This will use less energy and still allow for the A/C system to recover when you lower the thermostat to your desired comfort level when you get home in the evening.

Is there any advantage to setting my thermostat fan to "ON" so the fan runs constantly?

There are a couple. One is that you get constant filtering of the air in your home. The other is that because the air is moving, you have a more even temperature throughout the home.

How can I know what size system I need for my home?

There are many things which will determine the size (capacity) system your home requires. Some of these are: square feet to be cooled, climate, humidity, number of windows, insulation factors, which direction your home will face, heat producing appliances, and even the number of people who will be in the home.

What do all those rating numbers like SEER and HSPF mean?

The Federal government requires all air conditioning and heating equipment to be rated as to efficiency. The higher the rating, the more efficient the model. For cooling, the rating is SEER; heat pump is HSPF; gas furnaces are rated by AFUE.

Will anything help control the humidity in my house?

Humidity is a problem in many areas. The best way to control excessive humidity is to have a system that runs longer at lower speeds. Variable speed air handling equipment runs at very low speeds, which keeps the air circulating against the cooling coil and removes much more moisture than conventional systems. At these low speeds, the variable speed motor uses much less electricity than conventional motors.

Should my home be humidified?

That depends largely on your personal needs. Humidification is definitely helpful in many homes during a 6-8 week period during the coldest winter weather. In the coldest weather, insufficient moisture in the air often is responsible for such assorted problems as stuffy noses, sore throats, more dust than usual, cracks and dried-out joints in wood furniture and static electricity. A humidifier will be used only during the winter months and you will need to "clean and start" the humidifier in the fall. When spring arrives, you must "drain, clean, and shut-down" the humidifier or it could become a breeding ground for mold during the summer. .

What about having my ducts cleaned?

Ducts usually don't require cleaning, especially if filters are kept clean. You can occasionally check ducts by removing a few registers and inspecting the ducts from the inside with a flashlight. Some contracting companies have invested in special "duct cleaning" equipment and often offer specials just to keep their cleaning crews busy. Your money might be better spent on purchasing a high efficiency air filter that would keep the ducts clean.

How close to the outdoor unit should I plant shrubs or flowers?

Manufacturers generally agree that plants should not be closer than 18 inches. Air conditioners need to take in and exhaust air to operate efficiently. If air cannot circulate, the unit could build up heat and require service.

Should I cover my outdoor unit in the winter?

Covering your unit is not necessary. Air conditioners are manufactured to withstand all possible climate changes. In fact, rain helps keep your unit clean. Heat pumps run all year long,so it is important that they should never be covered.

What is the difference in a Manufacturer's Limited Warranty and an Extended Warranty?

A limited warranty covers specific parts (compressor, coil, heat exchanger, etc.); therefore, it is limited by the language in the warranty. Extended warranties are generally purchased in addition to the equipment. Extended warranties cover all parts and may also include labor for the service call. An extended warranty protects you from unexpected and unbudgeted service calls for the duration of the warranty.